Financial Advisors Work With Independent Contractors, Freelancers, the Self-Employed and More

SAN JOSE, CA--(Marketwired - Jun 27, 2013) - The nature of Silicon Valley's high tech workforce is changing, as Bay Area companies turn more frequently to contract consultants and other independent workers on a project-by-project basis to save money and remain competitive in the global business market. By some estimates, the independent workforce in the U.S. is expected to exceed 20 million by the end of 2013. Benefits of working independently include more flexibility and freedom, but independent workers lack a company-backed benefits package. Tech Wealth Management, an investment services program at Technology Credit Union (Tech CU), can help with personalized, one-on-one financial planning.

"Many independent contractors may be uncertain about how to best address their financial future," said Tech Wealth Management SVP, CWS® and Registered Representative Rebecca Matteson Nelson. "Our Advisors can help people develop a sound investment and savings strategy -- whether they are company-employed, self-employed, independent workers or retired."

A portfolio review with a Tech Wealth Management Financial Advisor gives an individual the opportunity to evaluate their existing asset allocation and design a personalized investment strategy that makes sense for their current situation and their future.

Tech Wealth Management has been providing financial services to the employees of Silicon Valley tech companies for more than 20 years, and therefore understands the unique challenges faced by tech workers as they plan for and manage their financial future. For example, when workers switch companies or decide to go out on their own, they are suddenly faced with the question of what to do with their 401(k) from a former employer. Many don't realize the potential "hidden costs" involved or the potential benefits of consolidating one or more 401(k) plans into a single IRA (Individual Retirement Account).

"The whole process of rolling over funds can be daunting, which is why so many people put it off," said Nelson, "but no one has to do this on their own. It's smart to seek guidance from people who understand what needs to be done, can streamline the process and can help individuals explore their options."

1. Meet with a Tech Wealth Management Financial Advisor to review your portfolio and determine which IRA is the right choice, a Traditional or Roth IRA -- or perhaps even both.
2. Contact your former employer or plan administrator to request rolling over funds to Tech Wealth Management.
3. Work with a Tech Wealth Management Financial Advisor to review, select and manage those investments that make the most sense for your unique goals and situation.

Nelson went on to say Tech Wealth Management offers additional types of qualified retirement plan vehicles for the self-employed and small business owners, as well as a comprehensive suite of solutions for education funding, business services, insurance services, and preserving and transferring wealth.

Securities, insurance products and advisory services are offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFGIS Insurance Agency), member FINRA/SIPC. Investments are: • Not FDIC/NCUSIF insured • May lose value • Not financial institution guaranteed • Not a deposit • Not insured by any federal government agency. Cetera is not affiliated with the financial institution where investment services are offered.

Founded in 1960 by the employees of Fairchild Camera and Instrument Semiconductor Division, Tech CU has served the high tech workforce in Silicon Valley for more than 50 years. Today, Tech CU is one of largest credit unions in the country with 70,000 individual and business members and more than $1.7 billion in assets. The financial institution is recognized as one of the best managed and strongest in the country. Tech CU's members have access to 65,000+ surcharge-free ATMs nationwide, online and mobile banking, 10 full-service branches throughout the Bay Area, and comprehensive mortgage, wealth management and small business services.